Background to the Initiative
Small islands, whether independent states or a part of a
larger national entity, face a number of challenges that are
common to all. These include vulnerability caused by the
small size of the economy, physical isolation associated with
high transportation costs, and problems related to the availability
of fresh water. Many islands are also prone to natural
hazards, including cyclones, floods and droughts. Other
problems, on the other hand, are unique to certain islands.
For example, population problems can take very contrasting
shapes on different islands: whereas many islands which belong
to developed nations face depopulation, many small island
nations in the developing countries are suffering from rapid
population growth rates.
The Island Gateway is intended to serve the twin purpose of being a gateway
to information on the internet related to small islands, and as
a point source for scholars, organizations and related research activities
pertaining to small islands and sustainable development by developing
different databases for the purpose.
The Homepages for the Gateway and the UNU Small Islands Network were
designed on behalf of UNU by Hari Srinivas
in cooperation with Glen Paoletto.
Return to the Island Gateway Homepage
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